Headaches After a Car Accident: Causes and When to Worry

Short answer: many headaches after a car accident come from strained neck joints and muscles, often from whiplash. But a headache can also be a sign of a concussion or bleeding in the brain, so any severe, worsening or unusual headache after a crash needs emergency care first.

Headache Warning Signs: Go to the ER

• A severe or rapidly worsening headache
• Loss of consciousness, confusion or unusual drowsiness
• Repeated vomiting
• Slurred speech, weakness, numbness or vision changes
• A seizure, or one pupil larger than the other

Common Causes of Headaches After a Crash

• Neck-related (cervicogenic) headaches that start at the base of the skull and spread toward the forehead or behind the eyes.
• Tension-type headaches from muscle guarding in the neck, shoulders and jaw.
• Post-concussion headaches, often with dizziness, fogginess or light sensitivity. These need a medical evaluation.
• Jaw (TMJ) strain from bracing or impact.

How Neck-Related Headaches Are Treated

Once serious causes are ruled out, care focuses on the neck and the systems around it: gentle joint mobilization and soft-tissue work, physical therapy for deep neck and upper-back strength, massage therapy, acupuncture, and retraining proper breathing mechanics to ease neck tension. When dizziness or balance is part of the picture, Dr. Joshua Vickers, D.C., also uses vestibular rehabilitation.

Learn more about tension headaches, dizziness and vertigo and car accident injury care.

We see car accident patients from Westminster and nearby communities, including Broomfield, Thornton, Northglenn, Arvada and Federal Heights.

We accept health insurance as an out-of-network provider, auto insurance claims, workers comp claims.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it normal to have a headache days after a car accident?

It's common, especially with whiplash. But a severe, worsening or unusual headache needs emergency care right away.

Can a chiropractor help with headaches after a car accident?

For neck-related and tension-type headaches, gentle chiropractic care combined with exercise often helps, once serious causes have been ruled out.

What if I hit my head?

Get a medical evaluation for a possible concussion, especially if you have confusion, dizziness, nausea or memory problems.

How long do post-accident headaches last?

It varies. Many improve over weeks with the right care, and some take longer. Report any change in your symptoms to your provider.